PETERSBURG, Va. — On Aug. 22, farmers and buyers will have an opportunity to “meet up” at Virginia State University’s Randolph Farm Pavilion, 4415 River Rd., Petersburg, Va. The event will take place begin at 9 a.m. and end at 3 p.m.
Farmers and buyers can participate in a networking session that can lead to sales relationships and open doors for follow-up. No contracts will be signed onsite. There will be a roundtable discussion in which some of the state’s top buyers will share what they’re looking for and answer questions. Representatives from United States Development Agency Rural Development will make a presentation, and there will be a Harmonized GAP Introduction workshop.
Farmers should come prepared with business cards and a list of products and/or a price sheet. Buyers—including wholesalers, chefs, restaurant owners, grocers and food service directors—should bring business cards and a list of products they wish to source locally.
The event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited, so register early. To register, visit www.ext.vsu.edu/calendar, click on the event and then click on the registration link.
— Virginia Cooperative Extension